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Orthoses Walking Aid
mechanical meta-material structures
Short leg orthoses are external braces that support the muscle and skeleton structure and its correct its alignment. Using mechanical meta-material mechanisms, the developed brace supports the auxiliary movements of walking to help with the healing process or aide as a long term guide towards natural walking movement.
Current orthoses only support grounding from the heel (heel rocker) or have a mechanism to support kicking (forefoot rocker) using electric assists. A framework which not only is expensive and large in size, but often uncomfortable for the patient to wear. At Softdevice we developed a design that offers support for movement in two axis using mechanical properties of the material itself.  The 3D printer outputs curved surfaces that match the individual body and needs of each patient.  We continue the develop to improve lives by reducing inconvenience. We are currently looking for further development and manufacturing partners. [Patent Pending]
Client
Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.
Date
2020
Links
sdcontact@softdevice.co.jp
Type
Prototyping
Process
Research
UX concept
UI study/design
Prototyping
Evaluation